Choosing International Private Medical Insurance: A Practical Guide

International private medical insurance (IPMI) is designed for people who live, work or travel across borders — expatriates, mobile professionals, NGO and development staff, and families who want access to care outside their home country. Policies vary widely, and the cheapest premium rarely means the best value. This guide sets out what to compare.

General information only — not financial or insurance advice for your specific situation.

1. Area of cover

Policies are usually priced by region — for example Africa only, worldwide excluding the USA, or worldwide including the USA. Including the USA can increase premiums significantly. Choose the area that matches where care will realistically be needed.

2. Inpatient and outpatient benefits

Check the overall annual limit and the limits within it: hospital accommodation, surgery, cancer treatment, maternity, outpatient consultations, diagnostics, medicines, mental health, dental and optical. Outpatient cover is often an optional module.

3. Pre-existing conditions and underwriting

Understand how existing conditions are treated:

• Full medical underwriting — you declare your history; specific conditions may be excluded or covered.
• Moratorium underwriting — recent conditions are excluded for an initial period and may become covered later.
• Group schemes — larger employer groups may cover pre-existing conditions with fewer restrictions.

4. Exclusions and waiting periods

Read the exclusions carefully — common examples include certain chronic conditions, cosmetic treatment, some maternity benefits within a waiting period, and high-risk activities.

5. Provider networks and direct billing

Check which hospitals bill the insurer directly, so members do not have to pay upfront and claim back. Ask how the insurer handles care at facilities outside its network.

6. Medical evacuation and repatriation

For people living in places where specialist care is limited, emergency evacuation to a suitable facility and repatriation can be among the most important benefits.

7. Claims experience and service

Look at how claims are submitted, how quickly they are paid, the availability of a 24/7 helpline, digital tools and the insurer's reputation for service.

8. Total cost

Compare premiums together with deductibles, co-insurance and out-of-pocket limits. A lower premium with a high excess can cost more when care is needed.

How OGHC can help

OGHC helps organisations compare international and local health cover options independently, design group benefits and review claims experience. See Health Insurance Advisory or book a consultation.